There is a bill in America, called the “Fair Repair Act”, which, when passed, “would require electronic companies to sell replacement parts and tools to the general public, would prohibit “software locks” that restrict repairs, and in many cases would require companies to make repair guides available to the public.”
Sounds like a great bill, right? That’s because it is. Only that Apple (and many other tech companies) are totally opposed to it!!
“Behind the scenes, Apple is trying to kill legislation that would make it easier for normal people to fix iPhones.”
There’s no reason for Apple to make it harder for Apple to repair their devices, except that it forces more people to opt for their Apple Care Protection Plan. Which, if you ask me, is quite manipulative of Apple.
And if you thought Apple is the only company engaged in fighting this bill, you’re mistaken. Apparently, there are a lot of companies out there who are right with Apple, who are willing to strangle their customers of repair services just to propagate their more lucrative agenda. And these companies range from all sorts of industries as well. CultOfMac reports —
“According to New York State’s Joint Commission on Public Ethics, others include Verizon, Toyota, printer company Lexmark, heavy machinery marker Caterpillar, phone insurance company Asurion, medical device company Medtronic, and the Consumer Technology Association are also fighting against it.”
Apple is being really aggressive with their campaign as well. They are spending a lot of money to fight the bill and trying everything in their power to stop the bill from becoming a law. According to MotherBoard —
“Between January and April, the above companies and organizations shelled out $366,634 ton their efforts. Apple meanwhile pays the lobbying firm Roffe Group $9,000 per month for its services.”
It’s sad to see that Apple is pushing so hard at making repair expensive for their users. We hope that Apple will stand up to its reputation of being one of the most helpful brands in the world and stay these efforts.
